Diversity is a fact, not a choice. The problems come when it comes to sharing power and embracing difference in the workplace. This blog explores current issues and concerns about equality and diversity and shows positive ways forward. Join the debate and spread it to your mates.

Tuesday, April 08, 2008

The government is embarking on a new initiative for 14-19 year olds to embark on vocational training for a new diploma in media and the creative industries. This is particularly aimed at disadvantaged ethnic minorities and in order to improve the lack of diversity in the media. The above Guardian articles spells out the initiative and its benefits.

Clearly there is a huge underlying problem in the media industry, and a shortage of solutions. It is an industry with poor training and also many would say very 'insidious' and artificial. Yet paradoxically, diversity has a huge contribution to make to creativity. Not only is there a problem at entry into these organisations, but also one of progression and seniority. It is still a very white industry, and power is certainly white controlled. Change it must, but how?

I beleive the entire culture of the industry needs to change. It needs to be more ethical and operate authentically. It needs to recognise the power of difference and accomodate diversity in all its ranks - but first, it needs to appreciate different cultures and the unique strengths they can bring.

Our culture tours can be very vital for media executives committed to change - they need to understand different cultures. We invite them to participate and take time out to experience the difference. Those with power need to understand diversity and not brush it aside or tick some boxes. Then only will there be lasting change.

Monday, April 07, 2008

Tony Blair has set up a special foundation for inter-faith cooperation which was launched in London recently.

This is an excellent speech showing the power of faith in maintaining morality and ethics in society and the urgency of multi-faith cooperation in dealing with local and global issues. The ideas are not necessarily new, but they have a new impact as they come from an eloquent ambassador who has an international profile. It deals with a lot of the common misunderstandings and misrepresentation of faith and shows how there are extremists in all traditions, even secular ones and we should all restrain such extremism.

The role of media in faith is not extensively discussed, but this is critical especially in modern Britain. By and large, the media is very suspicious of faith and does not give it credit for the moral and social impact of faith communities. This is highly regrettable and needs to be addressed. Also being a Christian, Mr. Blair has feigned away from the monotheism of Christianity which is a such a serious problem. Multi-faith cooperation needs to address this issue - not all faiths believe that theirs is the only true faith. The Buddhists, Jains and Hindus stand out prominently in this area and are not given the credit they deserve. Also he does not really engage the subject of genuine inter-faith dialogue where we actually debate and discuss different faith perspectives and go beyond the politeness of respect. This is a real problem of modern society and we have now the opportunity to truly evolve in faith.

About Me

Ancient wisdom has a lot to offer to the modern world. It is scientific and has stood the test of time, which is the best empirical proof of lasting values. The aim of this blog is to translate this wisdom to modern solutions and I need your help for this. You are key to building these solutions and sharing them with the rest of the world. Read this blog, comment on it and pass it on. Thank you to all those of you who have supported this along the way.
I am a writer, lecturer, consultant and broadcaster and run a social enterprise called Diverse Ethics. My books include Celebrating Diversity and Social Cohesion. Further details and bio at http://www.diverseethics.com